Synonyms of motif

motif

noun

mō-ˈtēf 

1

as in theme

a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition)

the motif of mute figures standing in lonely isolation is a recurrent one in the artist's works

Synonyms & Similar Words

• theme
• topic
• matter
• question
• subject
• content
• essence
• motive
• idea
• issue
• purpose
• problem
• core
• subject matter
• heart
• substance
• basis
• consideration
• staple
• bulk
• count
• fundamental
• nucleus
• body
• burden
• pivot
• main
• essential
• kernel
• point
• sum
• centerpiece
• mass
• argument
• net
• marrow
• talking point
• generality
• affair
• debate
• crux
• bottom
• gist
• essentiality
• pith
• nub
• keynote
• purport
• grist
• nubbin
• quick

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aside
• tangent
• excursion
• digression
• parenthesis
• interjection

2

as in pattern

a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric)

the fabric for the upholstery features a scallop shell motif

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pattern
• design
• ornament
• decoration
• motive
• figure
• scheme
• adornment
• device
• trim
• embellishment
• garnish
• frill
• caparison

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of motif

The pink tour poster featured illustrations of doves carrying olive branches and symbols of the pro-Palestinian movement including a watermelon and the fishnet motif of keffiyeh fabric. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026

Leopard is a classic, of course, but style lovers in the know are expanding their animal print repertoire to create a new classic with the motif. — Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026

My 300-plus-mile itinerary between Los Angeles and San Francisco dipped in and out of these motifs, with surprises along the way. — David G. Allan, CNN Money, 22 Sep. 2026

The floral motif around the window is by artist Christopher Holt, who took inspiration from native flowers in the Hudson Valley. — Alex Beggs, Architectural Digest, 21 Sep. 2026